You may think that the CNPS10X QUIET is just a stripped down version of its bigger brother, the CNPS10X EXTREME, and would be right. But the differences are very subtle and effective. It is not called QUIET for nothing!

CNPS10X QUIET vs CNPS10X EXTREME
Similarities - The physical size of the coolers are identical. They are both manufactured from the same materials. They are also compatible with the same CPU sockets and can cool any CPU currently on the market. Both are supplied with Zalman's ZM-STG2 Thermal Compound.

Differences - Immediately the first difference is that the finish of the coolers. The CNPS10X EXTREME features a "black pearl" nickel plating finish, while the QUIET is more au naturale, except for the distinctive blue band which runs around the centre of the cooler.

The biggest, and some would say the most important difference is the fan and how it is controlled. You can read how the fan is controlled on the EXTREME version by visiting its webpage. The QUIET fan however is controlled by a FANMATE 2, this gives the user total control over how fast (or slow) the fan spins. The fan supplied with the QUIET rotates at a minimum of 700 RPM (compared to the EXTREME's 1000 RPM) and according to Zalman is produces less then 17 db(A), in fact Zalman could not measure the noise of the cooler because it was so low, hence why they say "Unmeasurable"!

If it is proving difficult to choose which cooler to purchase, just ask yourself this question, Do I want ultimate cooling or ultimate silence? Once you have the answer you will know which cooler will be suitable for you.